As Singapore gears up for its 60th National Day, DSP Alex Choo reflects on the honour and responsibility of leading the SPF Guard of Honour Contingent at NDP 2025.
By: Hoon Jeng Jee
Under the blazing sun, dressed in their immaculate No. 1 uniforms, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) Guard of Honour (GOH) Contingent marches in unison – rifles gripped firmly in their right hands, left arms maintaining a perfect 90-degree swing.
At the helm is Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Alex Choo, commanding with precision. Sword in hand, he sets the pace as the GOH Contingent Commander, guiding 60 officers from the Training Command.
Command and Honour
“Leading the GOH Contingent during the National Day Parade (NDP) marks a defining milestone in my policing career, one that fills me with immense pride and humility as I represent the Force,” he shares.
DSP Choo joined the SPF in 2016, sparked by his three-year experience as a Volunteer Special Constabulary officer. "Working alongside regular officers showed me what genuine service meant," he recalls. “Their dedication and passion deeply resonated with me, and motivated me to join the Force.”
Subsequently, DSP Choo served as an Investigation Officer at Central Police Division from 2017 to 2019, then as a Team Leader for the Emergency Response Team until 2023 before joining the TP.
As a Policy Officer with the TP, DSP Choo reviews traffic policies through a behavioural science lens and works with the Land Transport Authority to develop more effective approaches for preventing road accidents and addressing traffic violations. Concurrently, he holds a secondary appointment as a member of the SPF United Nations Peacekeeping Force, an established unit within the Special Operations Command that performs policing duties in overseas peacekeeping missions.
“Each day brings unique challenges and learning opportunities,” DSP Choo shares. “The SPF provides a nurturing environment that encourages personal growth, allowing me to further develop problem-solving, leadership and interpersonal skills.”
Training for Precision
As the reserve Contingent Commander for the SPF’s GOH Contingent at NDP 2024, DSP Choo is stepping up for his second year in the national celebrations.
Since April 2025, DSP Choo has led his contingent through training drills for NDP, starting with the fundamentals.
He explains: “After mastering the basics, we focus on refining each element – from the precision of weapon drills to the uniformity of marching steps.”
Since 14 June 2025, combined rehearsals with other contingents have been taking place every Saturday at the Padang.
This year, 40 marching contingents are participating in the Parade and Ceremony (P&C) segment of NDP – the largest number of contingents at the Padang since 1990.
“What looks effortless on parade days represents a great deal of focus and coordination,” says DSP Choo. “Every step and movement must be perfectly synchronised across all contingents.”
With about 2,100 participants from all walks of life involved in the P&C segment, the action of one can impact all other contingents.
“That’s why it’s important that we must, in our own contingent march to perfection so that it remains coordinated with the other contingents,” he says, “to present one united parade.”
Beyond the Parade: A Legacy of Discipline and Unity
This year’s NDP holds a special meaning as Singapore celebrates its Diamond Jubilee – 60 years of independence.
“Beyond the parade grounds, the GOH Contingent’s performance symbolises more than precision,” says DSP Choo. “Despite coming from different units, backgrounds and generations, we march with a shared spirit as guardians who keep Singapore safe.”
The highlight for DSP Choo is during the National Anthem.
“Nothing fully prepares us for the surge of emotion when all spectators stand and sing as one for our National Anthem,” DSP Choo. “While we must maintain our bearing, these stirring moments remind us why we stand proud as guardians of our nation’s security.”
Balancing Duty and Family and Self
With intensive NDP preparations alongside daily responsibilities, DSP Choo’s schedule is demanding. Yet, he remains grounded through family and routine.
The father of two cherishes time with his six-year-old son and four-year-old daughter. He also dedicates time for daily runs, which offer him the opportunity to clear his mind and refocus.
“What helps me to maintain balance is my wife’s unwavering support,” DSP Choo shares. “Her understanding and willingness to shoulder additional family responsibilities during this intense period has been invaluable.”
As Singapore celebrates SG60, DSP Choo conveys his thanks to his fellow officers: “Each one of us, whether marching in the GOH Contingent or maintaining vigilance across Singapore, contributes to the security that allows Singaporeans to celebrate our nation's birthday with confidence and joy. Let us take pride in our vital role as guardians of the nation.”
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